Easton woman charged in $300,000 church theft

EASTON (AP) — A former church treasurer in Easton is accused of bleeding the church coffers of more than $300,000.

The Express-Times said Wednesday that 51-year-old Ann Marie Ballentine is facing felony theft charges. She had been treasurer of the First Presbyterian Church of Easton.

Easton police Lt. Matthew Gerould said the investigation began earlier this month.

Court records indicate the thefts began in October 2006. Gerould said the thefts spanned several years but he did not provide specific dates. He would not comment on whether any of the money has been recovered.

Ballentine did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment.